Across cooking forums and social media, one question keeps coming up:
“What is the correct name for the two types of Mexican comal pans—one concave and one convex—what dishes are they used for, and where can I buy them?”
At Daosheng Kitchenware, we specialize in professional-grade stainless steel versions of these traditional pans. Here’s everything — names, uses, and where to find them—so you can pick the perfect comal for your cooking style.
Understanding the Mexican Comal Pan
A comal is a round cooking pan deeply rooted in Mexican culinary tradition. Comal Pozo (Concave) – Bowl-shaped center that dips downward.
Comal Bola (Convex) – Dome-shaped center that rises upward.
| Shape | Main Name | Other Names |
|---|---|---|
| Concave | Comal Pozo | Choricera Pozo, Comal Choricero Pozo |
| Convex | Comal Bola | Choricera Bola, Comal Choricero Bola |
Names and Regional Variations
These pans go by many names depending on location and usage:
- Comal pozo – Concave style
- Comal bola – Convex style
- Choricera – General term for sausage-cooking pans
- Chalupero – Regional name, often linked to specific street foods
- Panza abajo – Informal slang for the concave version
- Comal para tacos – Convex pan used in street taco stands
The name “choricera” often refers to pans used for cooking chorizo, but it’s also used more generally, depending on the region.
Comal Pozo (Concave) – Best for Frying and Simmering
The bowl-shaped concave center holds oil, broth, or cooking juices, concentrating heat and liquids toward its center. enabling flavors to concentrate within the pan’s gravitational center. making it perfect for: Deep-frying tacos dorados, gorditas, and quesadillas.Cooking suadero beef and chorizo in flavorful fats and preparing Baja-style fried fish tacos.frying seafood in the middle while keeping tortillas warm on the sides.
Regional Popularity and Specialties
Favored in northern Mexican states and Baja California, the concave design aligns with seafood traditions and oil-intensive street foods.
Comal Bola (Convex) – Ideal for Grilling and Searing
Rising in the middle like a dome, the convex comal disperses oils outward. The elevated center provides a high-heat searing zone, while the periphery offers gentler heat.
The dome-shaped convex surface provides a high-heat zone for:
Grilling carne asada, or al pastor, toasting tortillas quickly
And char-grilling vegetables for salsas, its geometry supports dry-heat methods. If you enjoy the crispy texture of bacon, a raised pot is your choice.
In contemporary gastronomy, comals have transcended their traditional roots, finding roles in global fusion dishes, while modern stainless steel Kitchenware innovations have elevated their hygiene, durability, and performance for today’s professional kitchens and outdoors.
In southwest China, there's a city called Guizhou, known for its local specialty, "Laoguo."
Laoguo originated during the Qing Dynasty. Legend has it that during wartime, when rations were scarce, soldiers used tiles and pottery shards to roast food over fires, unintentionally developing this cooking method. The wok is typically an iron or clay pot with a raised or recessed center and rimmed edges. It uses heat to sear ingredients until cooked through.
Where to Buy Concave and Convex Comals
- Online Marketplaces and E-Commerce Platforms.
- Specialty kitchenware manufacturer- Daosheng Kitchenware， with over 30+ years of stainless steel kitchenware manufacturing experience, Daosheng Kitchenware delivers premium, food-grade products renowned for their durability, hygiene, and exceptional heat performance.
DaoSheng Factory Stainless Steel Convex Griddle Pan
3.Outdoor cooking and BBQ shops.
4.Swap meets or flea markets.
5.Traditional markets in Mexico.
Why Choose Stainless Steel from Daosheng Kitchenware
- Food-grade 100% 304 stainless steel for safety.
- Even heat distribution for consistent cooking.
- Long-lasting durability for commercial or home kitchens.
- Easy cleaning with minimal maintenance.
Storage Best Practices
Cool, dry storage prevents corrosion, while fabric pan covers mitigate dust accumulation.
Maintenance and Longevity
Cleaning Stainless Steel for Longevity.
Gentle detergents and non-abrasive tools preserve the mirror finish and cooking performance.
Conclusion
The differences in Mexican embossed plates extend far beyond aesthetics; they embody centuries of culinary evolution, regional specialties, and functional innovation. Whether sourced from the bustling city of Tiangui or the meticulously crafted stainless steel Kitchenware makers of Daosheng, Comal's enduring presence demonstrates its essential place in Stainless Steel kitchenware around the world.
